Last Updated on August 8, 2024 by Nikole
Flagstaff, Arizona, is a picturesque city nestled in the Coconino National Forest and surrounded by natural wonders.
Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in Flagstaff. Here are 25 of the best things to do in Flagstaff, Arizona which includes Sunset Crater, lava run trails, historic sites, and places to eat.
1.Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Location: 409 W Riordan Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://azstateparks.com/riordan-mansion
Cost: $10 per adult
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park offers a glimpse into Flagstaff’s early history.
The mansion, built in 1904, showcases the life of the Riordan family and the Arts and Crafts movement. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion and explore the beautifully preserved rooms and gardens.
2. Walnut Canyon National Monument
Location: Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Website: https://www.nps.gov/waca/index.htm
Cost: $15 per adult
Walnut Canyon National Monument is home to ancient cliff dwellings that offer a fascinating look into the lives of the Sinagua people who inhabited the area over 700 years ago.
Visitors can hike along the island trail to get up close to these remarkable dwellings and enjoy stunning views of the canyon.
3. Lowell Observatory
Location: 1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://lowell.edu/
Cost: $15 per adult
Lowell Observatory is a world-renowned astronomical research center where Pluto was discovered in 1930.
Visitors can take guided tours, view celestial objects through telescopes, and learn about the latest discoveries in space science.
4. Lava River Cave
Location: Forest Road 171, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/recarea/?recid=55148
Cost: $5 per vehicle
Lava River Cave offers a unique underground adventure for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
This mile-long lava tube provides a cool escape from the desert heat and a chance to explore a natural wonder formed by volcanic activity.
5. Museum of Northern Arizona
Location: 3101 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://musnaz.org/
Cost: $12 per adult
The Museum of Northern Arizona showcases the art, culture, and natural history of the Colorado Plateau.
Visitors can explore exhibits featuring Native American artifacts, fine art, and geological specimens that highlight the region’s rich heritage.
6. Coconino National Forest
Location: Multiple entry points around Flagstaff
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/coconino/
Cost: Some areas require a Red Rock Pass ($5 per day)
Tour Info: Check it out on Viator
Coconino National Forest offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking in Sedona, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Visitors can explore diverse landscapes ranging from ponderosa pine forests to red rock canyons.
7. The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Location: 4001 S Woody Mountain Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://www.thearb.org/
Cost: $10 per adult
The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a botanical garden dedicated to preserving and showcasing the native flora of the Colorado Plateau.
Visitors can stroll through gardens featuring over 2,500 species of plants and enjoy educational programs and events.
8. Buffalo Park
Location: 2400 N Gemini Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Buffalo Park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation with its network of trails for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking.
The park offers panoramic views of the San Francisco Peaks and is an ideal place for picnics and wildlife observation.
9. Kachina Peaks Wilderness
Location: North of Flagstaff, accessible via Snowbowl Road
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=54872
Cost: Some areas require a Red Rock Pass ($5 per day)
Kachina Peaks Wilderness is a pristine alpine wilderness that encompasses the highest peaks in Arizona.
Outdoor enthusiasts can embark on challenging hikes, backpacking trips, and nature photography excursions in this remote and rugged landscape.
10. Outdoors Unlimited
Location: 123 E Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://outdoorsunlimited.com/
Cost: Varies by activity
Outdoors Unlimited offers guided outdoor adventures such as whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and backpacking trips in the stunning natural surroundings of Flagstaff and beyond.
11. Sandy’s Canyon Trail
Location: Lake Mary Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86005
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Sandy’s Canyon Trail is a scenic hiking trail that winds through pine forests and meadows before descending into a beautiful canyon with views of unique rock formations.
12. Ashurst Lake
Location: Forest Road 82E, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/recarea/?recid=55118
Cost: $5 per vehicle
Ashurst Lake is a tranquil destination for fishing, boating, and picnicking surrounded by ponderosa pines and scenic mountain views.
13. NAU Art Museum
Location: 620 Knoles Dr #2032, Flagstaff, AZ 86011
Website: https://nau.edu/artmuseum/
Cost: Free
The NAU Art Museum features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art as well as works from the permanent collection, providing visitors with a diverse cultural experience.
14. Foxglenn Park
Location: 4200 E Butler Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Foxglenn Park offers recreational amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy outdoor activities.
15. Fort Tuthill Bike Park
Location: Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff, AZ 86005
Website: https://forttuthill.com/bike-park/
Cost: Free
Fort Tuthill Bike Park features a variety of mountain bike trails suitable for riders of all skill levels, as well as pump tracks and skills areas for honing biking techniques.
16. Sunset Crater
Location: Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Website: https://www.nps.gov/sucr/index.htm
Cost: $25 per vehicle (includes admission to nearby Wupatki National Monument)
Sunset Crater is a cinder cone volcano that erupted around 1,000 years ago, leaving behind a striking landscape of lava flows and colorful cinders.
Visitors can explore the area via hiking trails and learn about the geology and ecology of the region.
17. Visit the Wupatki Ruins
Location: Wupatki National Monument, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Website: https://www.nps.gov/wupa/index.htm
Cost: $25 per vehicle (includes admission to nearby Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument)
The Wupatki Ruins are ancient Puebloan dwellings that offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who inhabited this area over 800 years ago.
Visitors can take self-guided tours of the ruins and learn about the culture and history of the site.
18. Arizona Gondola
Location: Arizona Snowbowl, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://www.snowbowl.ski/the-mountain/arizona-gondola/
Cost: Varies by ticket type
The Arizona Gondola at Arizona Snowbowl provides breathtaking views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding landscapes as it transports visitors to an elevation of over 11,000 feet.
19. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course
Location: Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff, AZ 86005
Website: https://flagstaffextreme.com/
Cost: Varies by course and age group (around $65)
Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course offers an exhilarating experience with treetop obstacle courses and zip lines set within the ponderosa pine forest.
20. Visit Route 66
Location: Historic Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Visitors can take a nostalgic journey along Historic Route 66 in Flagstaff, exploring vintage diners, quirky roadside attractions, and classic motels that harken back to the golden age of American road trips.
21. Arizona Urban Trail System
Location: Throughout Flagstaff
Website: https://flagstaff.az.gov/1009/Urban-Trail-System-Maps-and-Information
Cost: Free
The Arizona Urban Trail System provides over 50 miles of interconnected trails for walking, running, and cycling throughout the city of Flagstaff, offering opportunities to explore urban and natural landscapes.
22. Enjoy Snacks at the Tourist Home All-Day Cafe
Location: 52 S San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://www.touristhomecafe.com/
Cost: Varies by menu item
Tourist Home All Day Cafe is a local favorite for delicious breakfast and brunch options as well as baked goods and coffee in a charming historic setting.
23. Tour Downtown Flagstaff
Location: Downtown Flagstaff area
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Downtown Flagstaff is a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and historic landmarks where visitors can stroll along the streets and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere.
24. Shop at Wild West Traders
Location: 2112 N West St #100A&B, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Website: https://wildwesttradersflag.com/
Cost: Varies by purchase
Wild West Traders offers a wide selection of Western apparel, accessories, and gifts that capture the spirit of the American Southwest.
In Conclusion
Flagstaff Arizona offers an abundance of attractions and activities that showcase its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene.
Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or enjoying outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences waiting to be discovered in this captivating city.
